6 free date ideas in Vancouver to spark a summer romance without breaking the bank
Need some ideas?
Two people at a hiking lookout. Right: A suspension bridge in the forest.
Vancouver isn't the cheapest city to live in, to say the least, but there are actually a lot of things to do that won't break the bank. If you want to spark a summer romance, you don't need to spend a lot to impress.
The city is brimming with free things to do, from romantic strolls on stunning beaches to outdoor movies under the stars.
Summer is here, and romance is calling.
Catch an outdoor movie
Is there anything more romantic than watching a movie under the blanket of stars?
In the summer there are free outdoor movies around Vancouver, at spots like Stanley Park, North Vancouver, and the art gallery. Stanley Park Outdoor Cinema has How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, Barbie, and Twilight coming up!
Explore Lynn Canyon Park
Hiking in Vancouver isn't exactly groundbreaking, but this North Vancouver park is home to a free suspension bridge that takes you above rushing waters. It's absolutely stunning, and a cool alternative to the popular Capilano Suspension Bridge.
There's lush greenery throughout the park and it's a perfect place to explore on a summer day.
Have a picnic in Queen Elizabeth Park
This park has stunning gardens that are enchanting to walk through. You can wander among unique plants and flowers, and enjoy the serenity of the garden together. Afterwards, you can settle down beside one of the trees here and enjoy a picnic.
Bike around the seawall
If you don't already have bikes you'll have to rent them for this, but it's still a pretty cheap and fun date activity. Most of the time the seawall is a go-to for tourists but it's also fun for locals.
You can enjoy the fresh air, mountain views and ocean scenery, and then grab coffee downtown afterwards.
Do a mini-road trip to Squamish
A long drive cramped into a car isn't exactly a recipe for romance, but a short 1-hour trip to Squamish for a change of scenery is a perfect weekend date activity. You can explore the bustling downtown area here with loads of cute shops and restaurants, or adventure onto one of the many hiking trails.
Watch the sun go down from Wreck Beach
There are some pretty unreal sunset spots around Vancouver, but Wreck Beach is one of the best out there. The secluded feel of the beach is special, and you get an amazing view of the ocean.
Settle down on the sandy shore and watch the sun light up the sky with colour.